Richardson Hitchins looks to make it two wins from two fights in 2023 as he prepares to take on Jose Zepeda on Saturday, broadcast live on DAZN.
Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) was last seen in the ring in February as he won by unanimous decision over John Bauza, adding another victory to his unblemished record. The 25-year-old now comes up against Zepeda (37-3 28 KOs), an experienced fighter nearly 10 years his senior who was also victorious earlier this year.
The duo will be the headliners of Saturday's event in Orlando, Florida that also includes big names such as Conor Benn and Jessica McCaskill, but Hitchins says he feels no pressure seeing his name at the top of the card.
“I don’t really feel the pressure of headlining,” Hitchins said. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think that there’s always been pressure for me for day one, but I handle it because I am confident in my ability and in who I am. I am a special fighter; at the end of the day, it’s boxing and I truly believe I’m one of the best out there.”
“Every opportunity is important, so I am looking at this fight like I have all my previous fights, it’s must-win. If you can master boxing and you can conquer the world, and that’s what I am in the sport for, to be at the very top.
“From starting out to headlining on Saturday it’s been a crazy journey."
Hitchins added that self-confidence and determination are key to climb the ladder as he is doing, because outside forces will present challenges in front of any athlete's goals. He credits his focus for getting to where he is, but also says he will continue to work to create the best version of himself.
“When you are chasing a dream and you are on that journey, it’s easy for people to doubt you or think you aren’t that guy," he said. "There are always things on the outside that you may have to overcome, but when you have my focus, your eyes set on that goal, all you must do is focus on that because the storm always ends, and you will get to the sunshine.
“My family was homeless, I have come from a tough beginning, but I always knew boxing would be a way out. I am making sure that me and my family never have to go back to days that I couldn’t help. Period. I think I have a gift and I am using that to make like better for them. I’m able to help and the more I master my craft, I will use it to achieve more and more inside and outside the ring.”